infinitive andparticiple phrases

Participial Phrases

A participial phrase contains a participle plus any complements and modifiers.

They always act as adjectives.

Participial phrases at the beginning of a sentence are usually followed by a comma.

examples...

Preparing for dinner, we set the table.
The backdrop, suspended over the stage, is new.

*a past participle may be used with the present participle of the auxiliary verb have or be.

example...

Having read about the eclipse, we were anxious to see it.



Find the participial phrase in each sentence. Underline the whole phrase and draw an arrow to the word it modifies.

1. Breaking the law, the young man stole the car in the parking lot.
2. Bob, tasting the food, asked for some pepper.
3. Being polite, the young girl asked for a napkin.
4. The soup, made from scratch, was delicious.
5. We saw the baseball being hit by the bat.

Infinitive Phrases


An infinitive phrase contains an infinitive plus any compliments and modifiers.

They always act as a noun, adjective, or and adverb.

examples...


Would you prefer to sleep until noon.
To speak slowly and clearly is important.
We plan to work safely and effectively.

Sometimes an infinitive phrase will have its own subject.

example...

Our neighbor encourages the bog to bark.

The teacher asked Maria to give a speech.


The word to can be dropped before an infinitive.

examples...

Let me [to] do the dishes.

Will you help [to] plan the project?


Find the infinitive phrase. Underline the phrase and tell how it is being used (noun,adj., adv.).

1. Everyday I have to feed my dogs.
2. You have to help make cookies.
3. Everyone was willing to sacrifice their presants for charity.
4. To feed your pets is very important.
5. I felt the need to call my mom.